Oregon’s First Confirmed Death From Novel H1N1 (swine) Influenza Reported In Marion County, USA

A Marion County woman with confirmed novel H1N1 (swine) influenza died on Sunday. “We are saddened by this death, and our hearts go out to the family,” said Dr. Karen Landers, health officer for Marion County. “It’s an unfortunate reminder of the seriousness of flu.” This is the first death of a person with novel H1N1 influenza in Oregon and the 28th in the nation. Strains of seasonal flu affect an estimated one in 10 Oregonians annually, and account for approximately 400 annual Oregon deaths and 36,000 nationwide. As of today, there is no indication that the H1N1 influenza is more dangerous than other strains of flu.

The Marion County woman was hospitalized for eight days prior to her death. She had multiple underlying health conditions, which placed her at high risk for infection and complications.

Marion County Health Department has investigated the case to identify who has been exposed to this case, and to slow further transmission.

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